James A. Stephens

Industry Experience

James Stephens has worked in the drilling industry since 1989.

James began his career as a helper on a pump rig and moved to his first drill rig while working on the Carlin Trend in Nevada. During his early days, he learned how to operate and support various machines and drilling methods in Arizona, California, New Mexico, Nevada, and Texas.

He moved into project management in 1998 and has assisted clients with drilling and well services, including flooded reverse, conventional mud/air, reverse circulation, diamond core, percussion hammer, auger, sonic, casing advance, well testing, well rehabilitation, well abandonment, well deepening and pump repair and installation throughout the United States.

James, a partner at Premier Drilling Company, communicates clearly with clients about the “tools in their toolbox,” particularly the experienced crews, drillers, and supervisors available to assist them with their sampling and drilling needs. Stephens is involved in every estimate, pre-construction meeting, and KPI. He also assists with overseeing profit and loss responsibility and establishing and implementing procedures and plans to grow Premier Drilling Company.

Professional Experience

2021 – present, Client Services Manager, Premier Drilling Company
2019 – 2020, Vice President, HC Drilling Professionals
2010 – 2019, Client Services Manager, National Exploration Well & Pumps
2008 – 2010, Mine Market Manager, Layne Christensen
2003 – 2007, Environmental Branch Manager, Layne Christensen
2001 – 2002, National Sales Director over Construction, Layne Christensen
1998 – 2000, Project Manager – Water Supply, Layne Western
1991 – 1998, Purchasing – Logistics Supervisor, Layne Western
1989 – 1991, Drill & Pump Rig Helper, Layne Western

Training and Certifications

• MSHA Certified
• OSHA Certified
• CPR/First Aid Certified

Professional Organizations

• American Exploration Mining Association (AEMA)
• AMIGOS
• California Groundwater Association (CGA)
• Geological Society of Nevada (GSN)
• Nevada Mineral Exploration Coalition (NMEC)
• Nevada Mining Association (NMA)
• Nevada Water Resources Association (NWRA)
• Society of Mining Engineers (SME)